Taoiseach Enda Kenny has refused to take part in a television debate on the upcoming Seanad referendum.
RTÉ says it was informed by the Government Press Secretary late yesterday that the Taoiseach was declining an invitation.
Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin had already agreed to represent the 'no' side.
RTÉ has said the debate will go ahead this Tuesday and alternative arrangements are being made to find a speaker to represent the 'Yes' campaign.
The 'Yes' campaign argues the Seanad is costly and ineffective while the 'No' campaign says the upper house is essential to Ireland's democracy.
A Fianna Fáil spokesperson commented, "We're deeply disappointed that the Taoiseach has decided not to engage in a proper debate about this fundamental change to the country's constitution.
"The very least people could have expected was that the Taoiseach would have the courage of his convictions and would seek to discuss and debate what is his personal initiative."
Democracy Matters campaigner Joe O'Toole said the Taoiseach's refusal showed he was afraid of debate.
He further claimed that this was why Mr Kenny wanted to get rid of the Seanad in the first place.
Former senator Mr O'Toole is part of the Democracy Matters group which is advocating a 'no' vote - against abolition - in the referendum.
Fine Gael, Labour, Sinn Féin and the Socialist Party favour abolition.
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